Work

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Barbers on Hygiene and Prevention of Communicable Diseases

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Barbers are frequently exposed to potential infection sources due to the use of sharp instruments, posing a risk for transmission of communicable diseases, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Limited awareness and poor hygienic practices among barbers in low- and middle-income countries contribute to the spread of these infections. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of barbers regarding hygiene and communicable diseases in Abbottabad, Pakistan. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to November 2024 among 65 barbers selected through convenience sampling from three areas of Abbottabad-Mandian, Kalapul, and Main Bazar. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and an observational checklist assessing knowledge, preventive practices, and hygiene standards. Descriptive analysis was performed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 27; IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY). RESULTS: Most barbers (75.4%) were aware that diseases could be transmitted through their work, but only 40% correctly identified specific infections, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. While 58.5% of shops had sterilizers, only 63% of barbers consistently used them. Observational findings also showed 95% used new blades per client, and 94% had antiseptics available. Most barbers (75.4%) were aware that diseases could be transmitted through their work, but only 40% could correctly identify specific infections such as hepatitis and HIV. Dettol chloroxylenol was the most commonly used disinfectant (78.4%), with varying combinations of sterilizers and new blades. Observational findings showed that 95% used new blades per client, 94% had antiseptics available, and 58.5% possessed sterilizers. However, 47% maintained visibly clean environments. CONCLUSION: Barbers in Abbottabad demonstrated partial knowledge regarding communicable diseases, with significant gaps in identifying specific infection risks associated with their profession. Although several basic hygiene practices - such as the use of new razor blades - were commonly observed, sterilization and overall infection-control measures remained inconsistent. Strengthening targeted educational initiatives and promoting standardized hygiene practices are essential to improving safe barbering practices and reducing the risk of disease transmission in this setting.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.98144